Examining political differences in perceptions of vaccine safety and effectiveness
Vaccine perceptions can influence acceptance and uptake. Dr. Dror Walter, with the Department of Communication at Georgia State University in Atlanta, and colleagues examined these perceptions using data from a national probability sample of 1,763 U.S. adults surveyed in November 2024. The study was published online in the American Journal of Public Health on Sept. 10, 2026.
An analysis of U.S. public opinion on vaccine safety and effectiveness reveals significant political divides. Dr. Dror Walter and colleagues at Georgia State University surveyed 1,763 American adults in November 2024, finding that Republicans rated vaccines more poorly than Democrats, with particular skepticism toward COVID-19 vaccines.
The study, published in the American Journal of Public Health, indicates that views of scientists and scientists' objectivity influenced perceptions of vaccine safety and effectiveness, particularly for the COVID-19 vaccine among Republicans. Notably, the MMR vaccine was deemed the most safe and effective, while COVID-19 vaccines received the lowest ratings.
The researchers suggest that highlighting the tangible benefits of science and vaccines in communication could help address vaccine hesitancy, especially when tailored to the political context and concerns of different audiences.
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